Dating simulators have been around for decades, providing gamers with a different way of experiencing virtual relationships. A dating sim is a game that introduces the player to many potential suitors. The player then makes choices, and based on those choices, the romantic interests react. Usually, exploring one relationship in these games is advisable, or things can get messy.
So, with these games adapting and changing constantly, what can we expect from the future of dating sims? Things such as technological advances, diversity, inclusion, and the complexity of storytelling are all factors to consider when considering future advancements.
Continue reading as these subjects are further explored.
Dating sims and technological advances
Dating sims are already available on several platforms, such as mobile gaming, PC and console gaming, and virtual reality. Advances that will continuously be expected are improved graphics, more detailed interactions, and more visual experiences. Most game developers are constantly working to improve their graphics, and dating sims are no different.
They range from a steady background with a character image in front to virtual reality experiences such as the game Focus on You. Most dating sims are played as click an option and see the result. However, the future of dating sims may instead show the player’s interaction with the character through cut scenes or gameplay. Focus on You is already an extraordinary example of beautiful visuals. As virtual reality advances, it can be expected that the gameplay to feel more immersive and realistic.
Diversity and Inclusion in Dating Sims
Many dating sims on the market are intended for males to play, searching for female suitors. While that’s not the case for all dating sims available, it remains the majority. The future of dating sims may include more diverse characters, part of the LGBTQ+, and some that may cater to older players. Many games have adopted the idea that players can end up with whomever they want, regardless of gender identity. As the current generation of gamers ages up, we can expect to see dating sims that target older generations rather than continue to be in a school setting.
Gameplay complexity and storytelling
If dating sims continue to grow in ways such as becoming more immersive and inclusive, that will increase the complexity of creating the games, as well as playing them. Having more characters with more pathways can potentially challenge the player in pursuing the targeted interest. Aside from creating different choice pathways, storytelling will also become more complex.
The more diverse and realistic characters become, the more certain choices may affect them more realistically. For example, if character 1 is the pursued target, there may be differences in how they and others react based on the player’s characteristics. Or, if the player makes a significantly poor choice, it may create more difficulty in earning back the trust and affection of that character.
Dating sims gain popularity annually. The choice-based relationship games have become a fun and challenging experience for many gamers. The future of dating sims may include technological advances, inclusion, diversity, and more complex storytelling and gameplay. As technology advances, games will adapt, and dating sims are no exception.
With the growing interest of players, there will be a desire for more diverse characters and more inclusion for LGBTQ+ and the age of the characters. Finally, with growing technological advances and more inclusive characters, gameplay and storytelling will become more complex. This will allow for greater challenges when pursuing the target character and may open the door for more realistic and immersive gameplay.
Ferry Godmother Productions is working on its own dating sim; details will be announced soon! For updates, keep an eye on our site!